UFCW Local 555 Files Unfair Labor Practice Charge Against Kroger Company

TIGARD, Ore.--(Business Wire)--
On July 29, 2008, United Food & Commercial Workers Union, Local
555 filed an Unfair Labor Practice Charge against Fred Meyer (owned by
the Kroger Co.) for failing to bargain in good faith.

Last November the non-food employees at The Dalles Fred Meyer
voted overwhelmingly to be represented by UFCW Local 555. The charge
claims "The Employer is not bargaining in good faith based on taking
(nearly) 6 months to get to the (bargaining) table after the election.
Also, on a number of items that the Union has presented at the table,
the Employer has just said no to everything and will not discuss the
issues."

Some of the key issues Fred Meyer is failing to address are;
seniority and full-time employment, quality and affordable health
care, and stable and safe money for retirement (pension.) Non-food
employees are suffering--like Kellie Archer, a full-time Fred Meyer
worker, who can't afford medical coverage for her and her family.

"The Company is showing us, the employees, a complete lack of
respect," said Kellie. "We have said we want representation, we want
guaranteed wages, real benefits, and to be able to take care of our
families. It is time Fred Meyer starts bargaining in good faith with
us. It is time for us to get a contract."

UFCW Local 555 will be holding a community rally in front of the
store August 5, 2008. For more information visit
www.groceryworkersunited555.org or contact Ric Ball, Collective
Bargaining Director, to schedule an interview.

United Food & Commercial Workers Union
Local 555
Ric Ball, 503-598-6334
ric.ball@ufcw555.com

Copyright Business Wire 2008